DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically or cytologically confirmed squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma of the esophagus Tumors of the gastroesophageal junction allowed if at least 50% of the tumor involved the esophagus at time of initial diagnosis Locally advanced or metastatic disease that is not amenable to surgery or radiotherapy with curative intent Progressive disease after 1 chemotherapy regimen for locally advanced or metastatic disease Relapse within 6 months of completing prior neoadjuvant chemotherapy allowed Chemotherapy administered solely as a radiosensitizer not considered a prior chemotherapy regimen At least 1 non-irradiated measurable target lesion At least 20 mm in at least 1 dimension by conventional techniques OR At least 10 mm in at least 1 dimension by spiral CT scan No known brain metastases, spinal cord compression, or carcinomatous meningitis